Redbone Coonhound

The representative of the breed, like no other, is suitable for hunting purposes. Its sharp eyesight, speed, and endurance make it the hunter’s best companion. The dog is also suitable for waterfowl hunting. Its well-developed sense of smell makes it able to find any object. In the U.S., the Redbone Coonhound has even earned the nickname of Google as a joke. By nature, he is a leader-dog.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The history of raccoon hounds began during the colonization period. The first representatives were seen in America. There is a theory that George Washington, the first national elected of the United States, imported the Foxhounds. They are recognized as the ancestors of the modern Cunhaunts. Foxhounds are believed to have been crossed with French hounds, a gift from the Marquis de Lafayette.

Another group of scientists is sure that Cunhaunts appeared in America in the early eighteenth century. Bloodhounds, which hunted raccoons, are thought to be related. The Redbone Coonhound subspecies was bred in Georgia in the late 19th century. They helped local farmers hunt bobcats and wild boar. In the breed’s formation process, Redbone Coonhounds learned to hunt various games in challenging environments. Today, the breed is popular in the southeastern United States. It is also where the largest Coonhound breeding kennels are located.

Appearance

Animals rarely go without compliments from passersby. Its slender build, muscular body with folds on its neck, and webbing on its paws help it swim. The head of the pet is elongated. The nose bridge is straight with a slight bulge. The nostril is a brown or darker shade with wide nostrils. Round eyes with an intelligent and understanding look. Ears are large, floppy. Legs – straight and straight with muscular thighs. The coat is short and smooth. The tail is long and narrower towards the end. Redbone Coonhound is considered the most common of the subspecies. The color can be monochrome (wine or brown shade) or with white dots.

Character

The representative of the breed, like no other, is suitable for hunting purposes. Its sharp eyesight, speed, and endurance make it the hunter’s best companion. The dog is also suitable for waterfowl hunting. Its well-developed sense of smell makes it able to find any object. In the U.S., the Redbone Coonhound has even earned the nickname of Google as a joke. By nature, he is a leader-dog. If he feels humiliated by other animals, he will behave aggressively. But he will never be the first to get into an altercation.

Despite its fierceness, the Redbone Coonhound gets along well as a pet. It shows loyalty and respect to its owner. The dog will even bring slippers. He will take care of the children if requested. As for small pets, they can be prey for the сoonhound. Therefore, it is better not to keep them in one house.

Care

Having a short coat does not require complex care. Brush its ears, eyes, and claws regularly. Comb your pet’s hair once a week. Despite its short coat, the Redbone Coonhound sheds abundantly. Also, hunting dogs have a specific smell. Frequent bathing and special products will not help to cope with it. Bathing procedures should be carried out only if necessary.

Training

The dog needs active training. Low mobility can cause musculoskeletal problems in the breed. Long active walks not only bring physical benefits but also establish contact between man and pet. The ideal owner of the animal is someone who has a strong character. If you give commands in a confident voice, there will be no disobedience. Education should begin as soon as the puppy arrives at home. First, develop the habit of following his owner’s voice. Next, train him to search the area. This way, your dog will learn to recognize familiar faces by their scent and voice. The hunting instinct of the Redbone Coonhound helps to find animals on hot trails. Often the dog is used for service purposes.

Common Diseases

By nature, dogs have a strong immune system. The main diseases of the Redbone Coonhound are related to its main function – hunting. Most often injured limbs and eyes. Occurrences are:

• dirofilariasis of the heart;
• dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints;
• obesity;
• eye diseases and infectious diseases;
• worms, fleas, ticks, etc.

Nutrition

The active life activities of Redbone Coonhounds require a nutritious, vitamin- and mineral-filled diet. Meat, the main source of protein, should predominate in the pet’s diet. Meat products with bones that strengthen the teeth are acceptable. Cereals, fish, dairy products, cheese, fruits, and vegetables are good for the Redbone Coonhound’s diet. Also, the animal should have access to water. It is worth removing raw eggs, beans, sweets, and flour from the diet. If you choose a non-natural diet, the pet’s food should be appropriate for age and weight. It is recommended to choose a premium dry food with a large set of micronutrients.